Today is a time to honor our veterans

Today is the recognized holiday for Veterans Day on Nov. 11. Originally the day was named Armistice (truce) Day since it began as a celebration of peace after the Armistice was signed in the Forest of Campiegne by the Allies and Germans during the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, ending World War I. In 1954, it was renamed Veterans Day to honor all who served in both world wars as well as the Korean War. The first Armistice Day was celebrated a year later after President Woodrow Wilson signed the Congressional Resolution.

While the holiday and its name began as a result of war, it is not a celebration of war but intended as a time set aside to honor those who have served and continue to serve to protect our freedoms. We don't have to agree with the war to pay tribute to those who volunteer to protect our borders and our homeland. A simple "thank you" to our veterans is all that is needed. Did you know that according to the 2004 Census, there were 24.5 million military veterans in the United States and 1.7 million of them were female? It is becoming more and more difficult to recognize the changing faces of those serving in the military which means we need to be more aware of the differences in today's volunteer military. We are grateful for your sacrifice and time served. Thank you.

I realize it's a little early to be talking about Christmas but we had a suggestion from Howie Althouse to hold a Christmas lighting contest due to the many well decorated homes in our neighborhood last year. We also have had a suggestion from Joyce Eckrem for a neighborhood traveling dinner amongst varying host homes here in the neighborhood as a way to meet our neighbors during the season. I would like to hear from you, the readers and residents of Ruhenstroth, regarding your interest and opinions. Please contact me at the numbers and -e-mail address listed below. It seems like a meeting at the firehouse in the next couple of weeks might be appropriate, what do you think?

A few business items: I received a call from one of our neighbors about caring for outdoor pets this winter. Please remember to provide shelter and warmth along with plenty of fresh water and food for our four-legged friends. Also, there continues to be a problem with excessive speed along Palomino and Pinto lanes, not only from residents but from commercial vehicles. Please slow down before someone gets hurt.

Have a ramblin' good week!

n To reach Gail Davis, e-mail hilltopranch97@charter.net or call 265-1947.